In recent years, many trees around Lake Massena and Klingensmith Park have been lost to drought, disease, storm damage, pests, and age. As more and more trees fall or are removed, citizens miss the shade and provision for wildlife the trees offered. In an effort to address the lost trees, Bristow Garden Club is partnering with Bristow Community Connection administrators to raise money for the replacement of those trees with native trees.
Why native trees? Native trees offer protection and shelter for other native plants and wildlife to grow and thrive in a beautifully natural landscape. Additionally, native trees are better adapted to survive local weather events and climate conditions. As native trees and plants fill the landscape, they prevent invasive species from growing and spreading as well. When native trees and plants become overtaken by invasive species, soil quality and issues such as erosion result. Moreover, native wildlife depends on those native, natural trees and plants for shelter and food in their survival.
The native tree replacement effort will be a long-term, continuous partnership with the City of Bristow as well. Mayor Rick Pinson said, “I’m grateful for local groups working to make Bristow a more beautiful and healthy place for all. It’s a blessing when we work together. The trees will be something citizens can enjoy for decades to come, so I’m happy to approve this cooperative effort.” As both groups raise money to purchase the native trees, Bristow Garden Club will choose and purchase the trees. The City of Bristow will participate in choosing the locations where the trees will be planted and aid in planting the trees. Also in cooperation with both Bristow Garden Club and Bristow Community Connection, the City of Bristow will accept monetary donations earmarked for the “Native Tree Replacement Project.”
Any individual, family, business, or organization desiring to donate toward the purchase of native trees may present donations to the Bristow Garden Club during any club meeting, which is every second Thursday of the month, at 1:30 p.m., at the VFW. I, Katy Battenfield, will also accept donations, or specifically earmarked donations may be presented to the City Treasurer, Janet Hamel, at Bristow City Hall. Throughout the year, project donation receptacles will be distributed around the community and at fundraising events.
Angie Gentry photo